Powerhouse has announced the opening of applications for the second annual Carl Nielsen Design Accelerator, a distinctive program designed for Australian industrial designers who are eager to advance projects emphasising sustainable design. This eight-month initiative seeks to nurture talent in the early to mid-stages of their careers, focusing on those within a decade of their graduation.
The program is backed by a significant contribution from the estate of the renowned Australian industrial designer Carl Nielsen and his wife, Judy. Their legacy continues to bolster the growth of sustainable practices within the industrial design community through this dedicated accelerator. Each year, the initiative targets one exceptional project from Australia, providing the selected designer with industry-level support in production, mentorship, research, and outreach.
In 2023, designers Ash Fischer and Orlando Hayes benefited from the program, successfully advancing their Camada Daybed project. Under the mentorship of prominent Australian furniture designer Adam Goodrum, their project exemplified the integration of aesthetic appeal with environmental sustainability, redefining the potential of waste materials in design.
This year, the selection panel will consist of Angelique Hutchison, a curator at Powerhouse; Adam Laws, Director at Nielsen Design Associates; and Ed Ko, the industrious founder of IDX SYD. Based in Sydney, Ko will guide the chosen recipient through a customised program that aligns with their project’s specific needs. Ko’s role in the industry as a lecturer and community builder showcases his commitment to fostering innovative design solutions.
Reflecting on Carl Nielsen’s impact, Adam Laws remarked on how Nielsen fundamentally shaped the industrial design landscape in Australia during its nascent stages. Nielsen’s mentorship helped many budding designers ascend to prominent positions within the field. The Carl Nielsen Design Accelerator aims to perpetuate this spirit of guidance and achievement.
Lisa Havilah, Chief Executive of Powerhouse, commented on the integral role of product and industrial design within the Powerhouse Collection since the early 20th century. “This program not only contributes to our ongoing mission to spotlight and support local sustainable design innovations but also enhances our connection with the broader design community,” Havilah stated. She expressed profound gratitude towards Carl and Judy Nielsen for their endowment which significantly aids emerging designers.
Adam Goodrum, a mentor in the previous accelerator cycle, shared his thoughts on the program’s substantial impact. “It’s a privilege to support these innovative minds through their formative years,” Goodrum noted, underscoring the initiative’s importance in overcoming the challenges and expenses associated with developing new designs.
The Carl Nielsen Design Accelerator complements the Powerhouse Climate Action Plan, which aims to integrate sustainability across all its programs and exhibits. For decades, Powerhouse has been at the forefront of collecting and showcasing designs that address sustainability and climate science, continually ensuring that its collection reflects groundbreaking local innovations.
Industrial designers who have been in the profession for no more than ten years are eligible to apply for this career-defining opportunity. The application window is now open until 5pm on 7 June 2024, with the successful applicant to be unveiled during Sydney Design Week in September 2024. This program represents a unique chance for designers to gain significant exposure and development opportunities within the sustainable design arena.
For information on how to apply click here
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